The Detroit Tigers look set to miss out on one of the better players in free agency. Last season, Detroit was extremely aggressive in its pursuit of third baseman Alex Bregman. Despite the team’s assertiveness, the All-Star and Gold Glove winner chose to join the Boston Red Sox in February.
The deal, however, did not last long, and Bregman once again became a free agent after opting out of the deal. Because of this, many expected the Tigers to be back in the Bregman sweepstakes. Nevertheless, this may not exactly be the case. According to Detroit Free Press reporter Evan Petzold, Detroit’s interest in Bregman has been “lukewarm” so far.
Petzold did claim that the Tigers could amp up their efforts to sign Bregman during the current Winter Meetings. A recent roster move has negatively affected Detroit’s chances of grabbing the star, though. The reporter claims that the prospect of signing Bregman instantly became less likely after Gleyber Torres accepted his qualifying offer with the team. As a result, the infielder will make $22 million for the 2026 season.
Detroit Tigers to Focus on Acquiring Pitching Depth this Offseason
GettyThe Detroit Tigers seem set to target pitching rather than Alex Bregman.
Rather than seriously target Bregman, the Tigers are instead expected to focus on pitching during the offseason. Team general manager Jeff Greenberg revealed these intentions during an interview in mid-November. This is the case even following news that starter Jack Flaherty chose to remain in Detroit.
“We’re going to prioritize pitching,” Greenberg stated at the time. “Obviously, Jack Flaherty’s decision informs some of that, but I think we’ll still be open to adding a starter. We’re certainly going to need to add to our bullpen… That’s clearly what we’re focused on.”
The Tigers were essentially a one-man rotation in 2025. Tarik Skubal was once again one of the best pitchers in baseball and collected his second Cy Young award. Nevertheless, no other Detroit starter had a WAR over 1.7 or a WHIP under 1.20. Flaherty also led all MLB starters with 15 losses.
Despite Skubal’s successes, he has been linked with a trade away from the Tigers in recent weeks. Although it is fairly unlikely that he will be dealt, Detroit would have to completely revamp its rotation if it loses Skubal.
Tigers Could Opt to Make Smaller Move in Free Agency
Assuming that the Tigers stand pat offensively, their infield on opening day would likely consist of Spencer Torkelson, Gleyber Torres, Javier Baez, and Colt Keith. They do, however, also have highly-rated infield prospects such as Hao-Yu Lee, Max Anderson, and Kevin McGonigle waiting in the wings. Because of this, Bregman is likely not necessarily a top priority for the team.
Detroit could also look to improve its infield by targeting a cheaper option. As Petzold pointed out, the Tigers previously showed interest in Ha-Seong Kim before he signed with the Tampa Bay Rays in February.
Like Bregman, the veteran opted out of his deal and is now a free agent. Kim is typically deployed as a shortstop, but he can also play second and third base. The infielder would be a far lower risk than potentially giving Bregman a massive contract.
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